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escordviooc2025-06-01 02:01 pm
seawarden) wrote in escordviooc2025-06-01 02:01 pm
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« captain's log #22: june 1, 2025 »
QUICK UPDATES
YO HO HO!! We're officially hitting summer!!! We have some mods taking hiatus and vacations this month so we've provided as much content as we could through the Quest Board and we will have TDM running on schedule. CS and Kassie will be steering the ship, but the rest of us won't be completely gone. So this is just a heads up that some questions and such may be delayed due to mod absence!
We have updated the Calendar for important dates, but here is a quick heads up on what to expect this month:
The Manta Board has been posted with new and updated quests!
A few of last month's quests have also carried over, so if you didn't have a chance to do them last month, you have another chance. We have a Special Bounty for those who would like to help apprehend the last few individuals who were involved with the whale hunting and crystal crime.
Our Rewards page has been updated with a few new things for the month! We have also updated and clarified the Ability Regain reward and renamed it to Ability Unlock to better reflect it's true purpose.
Finally, applications open in July and due to the number of slots open invitations are limited to players only! Direct requests for invites from mods are not available at this time. Remember, new players must receive an invitation either from a current player or directly from a mod, and players are limited to one invite. Players must make a request on the Invite Request page.
We have updated the Calendar for important dates, but here is a quick heads up on what to expect this month:
» 06/03: EMP/ATP
» 06/14: Event/TDM
» 06/24: Reserves
» 06/28-30: Activity Check
» 07/01-03: Applications Period
» 06/14: Event/TDM
» 06/24: Reserves
» 06/28-30: Activity Check
» 07/01-03: Applications Period
The Manta Board has been posted with new and updated quests!
A few of last month's quests have also carried over, so if you didn't have a chance to do them last month, you have another chance. We have a Special Bounty for those who would like to help apprehend the last few individuals who were involved with the whale hunting and crystal crime.
Our Rewards page has been updated with a few new things for the month! We have also updated and clarified the Ability Regain reward and renamed it to Ability Unlock to better reflect it's true purpose.
Finally, applications open in July and due to the number of slots open invitations are limited to players only! Direct requests for invites from mods are not available at this time. Remember, new players must receive an invitation either from a current player or directly from a mod, and players are limited to one invite. Players must make a request on the Invite Request page.
AC RESULTS
Here are the results for last month's AC round:
Legion |forwearemany
Denji |nutsornothing
Basil |photographists
Our player cap is currently at 58/65, which means we have 7 slots open.
Legion |
forwearemanyDenji |
nutsornothingBasil |
photographistsOur player cap is currently at 58/65, which means we have 7 slots open.
EXTRA NOTES
Here is a recap of a few things that occurred last month.
» Whoever or whatever is responsible for those random rifts has yet to be found, with no hints on what may be behind it. MANTA is asking anyone who has information to come forward so that they can look into the matter further.
» The Hideaway crew and others have successfully unearthed some interesting artifacts that are able to harness minor weather magic from the island found on the treasure maps bought at the Auction Houses. Others have found some flowers that have a cooling effect about them.
» Progress is being made to settle the Boarfolk on their island in spite of the conflicts, but it is being worked on.
» Although Sidestep and Faulkner tried to save the girl in the No Sins Unpunished MANTA posting, she was later taken out by Shadow and Arlecchino. May her soul rest peacefully.
» MANTA would also like to thank the Paladins who looked into the Tara-Tam Deepcroft, but there is still more work to be done - please check for part two of the quest on the MANTA board.
» The Hideaway crew and others have successfully unearthed some interesting artifacts that are able to harness minor weather magic from the island found on the treasure maps bought at the Auction Houses. Others have found some flowers that have a cooling effect about them.
» Progress is being made to settle the Boarfolk on their island in spite of the conflicts, but it is being worked on.
» Although Sidestep and Faulkner tried to save the girl in the No Sins Unpunished MANTA posting, she was later taken out by Shadow and Arlecchino. May her soul rest peacefully.
» MANTA would also like to thank the Paladins who looked into the Tara-Tam Deepcroft, but there is still more work to be done - please check for part two of the quest on the MANTA board.
FINDING ELAH CONTINUES
Fiona and Miranda both thank everyone for participating in the discussion, and they will take every opinion to heart as they try to figure out a plan. Suggestions ranged from bloodthirsty calls for the heads of those involved to be offered as a proof of punishment delivered, to more peaceful ideas stemming from seeing what Elah itself wants rather than make assumptions. Several suggested funeral rites and memorials, and this will be one path that can already be worked on. There is a designated quest under the Paladins with more details, but Corsairs are also welcome to participate (they just would not receive the full quest points).
As mentioned earlier, there is a Special Bounty for anyone who wants to have their character help capture the remaining individuals wanted for their participation in the crime of hunting whales and crystalizing innocents. The quest has a general write up, and we are letting players shape who they are catching! Anything goes because all sorts of people were involved—officials, notable individuals, criminal leaders, etc. Both Armadas will be involved as members missing are also from both factions (so it's not just Paladins, there are also high profile Corsairs involved). There could also be riftfarers among the list for anyone who wants to spice things up. Again, we're leaving this up to the players so have fun with it! Make them as interesting, important, or useless as you want. There is a designated toplevel for players to leave notes of the type of individual they are going for.
As for finding Elah, we've already received questions from those who want to have their character play an active part in searching for Elah, and this is your chance. There is a Special Quest specifically for this and we have a designated toplevel for players to comment about what they're character would try to find and do in tracking Elah. While we will try to provide material for characters to work with to actually make some progress, keep in mind that no one will be able to find Elah's exact location and will only find steps to bring everyone closer to where to go or what to do. There will also be some challenges depending on how much a player wants to go with this.
Some have also expressed wariness and concern about the mysterious entity dubbed "The Great One," which many believe is the one that appeared at the end of the crystal island raid, its presence made known only by the giant red eye and the voice. However there are some stories that can be learned about (from here):
The good news is thanks to the efforts made to help the hurt whales and foster positive relations with the whalefolk, they will help assist when the time comes.
We will use everyone's efforts and results for the next month, July, where we hope to finally bring in Elah! However, if we can't fit it naturally in (such as something unexpected comes in development), then August will be our goal to try and close out this arc.
Until then, everyone will still be left dealing with the aftermath of Elah's departure…and why it will be very apparent that they need to bring back the Leviathan sooner rather than later.
As mentioned earlier, there is a Special Bounty for anyone who wants to have their character help capture the remaining individuals wanted for their participation in the crime of hunting whales and crystalizing innocents. The quest has a general write up, and we are letting players shape who they are catching! Anything goes because all sorts of people were involved—officials, notable individuals, criminal leaders, etc. Both Armadas will be involved as members missing are also from both factions (so it's not just Paladins, there are also high profile Corsairs involved). There could also be riftfarers among the list for anyone who wants to spice things up. Again, we're leaving this up to the players so have fun with it! Make them as interesting, important, or useless as you want. There is a designated toplevel for players to leave notes of the type of individual they are going for.
As for finding Elah, we've already received questions from those who want to have their character play an active part in searching for Elah, and this is your chance. There is a Special Quest specifically for this and we have a designated toplevel for players to comment about what they're character would try to find and do in tracking Elah. While we will try to provide material for characters to work with to actually make some progress, keep in mind that no one will be able to find Elah's exact location and will only find steps to bring everyone closer to where to go or what to do. There will also be some challenges depending on how much a player wants to go with this.
Some have also expressed wariness and concern about the mysterious entity dubbed "The Great One," which many believe is the one that appeared at the end of the crystal island raid, its presence made known only by the giant red eye and the voice. However there are some stories that can be learned about (from here):
"The Great One"
- There are speculations that it is a leviathan because what else could have that kind of power?
- Most stories will be about its destructive power similar to what is already known—tales and legends of island lost to a tsunami after invoking the wrath of the "sea gods." The common cause is excessive harm and brutality to creatures and folk of the sea, including mermaids and sirens.
- However, there are other more positive tales, especially in peaceful coastal villages that often have good fishing. These places often revere some version of a "sea god" or "entity," though careful research would notice some similarities to them even if they go by different names or descriptions. Some will have tales of people lost at sea or believed to have drowned to have miraculously washed ashore, and such survivors will say they felt a "magnificent presence" when they were saved. Others will have historic tales of their island once saved from attackers by a giant rogue wave that destroyed entire ships in one blow.
- Asking seafolk such as the whales, mermaids, sirens, etc. will yield little to no results—except for the inkling that they may know something but are refusing to say anything. All they may say is that some legends and myths are true, and that if anyone doesn't want to risk anything they should respect the ocean and all who live in it.
The good news is thanks to the efforts made to help the hurt whales and foster positive relations with the whalefolk, they will help assist when the time comes.
We will use everyone's efforts and results for the next month, July, where we hope to finally bring in Elah! However, if we can't fit it naturally in (such as something unexpected comes in development), then August will be our goal to try and close out this arc.
Until then, everyone will still be left dealing with the aftermath of Elah's departure…and why it will be very apparent that they need to bring back the Leviathan sooner rather than later.
STICKY SITUATION
Nogard will continue to drag the large island that currently houses the remnants of Elah's land. However, even Nogard's patience is running thin as it has to keep the island secure even when it's settled on land. Even worse, parts of the floating land are breaking off. So far it's only been small bits on the outer edges without any populations near it, but every so often there are tremors that are felt and the populace is understandably worried.
This will lead to Nogard heading towards an island called Adoportsag that is home to giant snails and snailfolk along with some slugs and other large insects. Here the island of Elah will be detached from Nogard but will be able to stay floating freely without moving too much as the currents are calm.
What is notable about these creatures and the reason for traversing to this strange island is their slime. A strong waterproof adhesive, it can be developed to temporarily, well, glue and seal the disturbed cracks to keep the land together. Yes, the snail slime can be that strong with enough refinement and magic. However, it will take a large amount and they can't use it for every crack, so it will only be used for the critical areas. Other ways to keep the island together will need to be devised while there.
If dealing with strange snails and collecting sticky slime isn't already challenging enough, while stationed at the island, there will be a return of Krahs, the shark leviathan and the ruthless sharkfolk to attack the island of Elah. Perhaps sensing this as a prime opportunity to try and take over, they will also try to rip apart the giant landmass. One might think that would be impossible, but with the island already slowly breaking apart and the shark leviathan having quite the powerful jaw, well. Perhaps it's not so hard to imagine after all.
All hands on deck to fend off the sharkfolk! Perhaps the whalefolk will join in and help—if they arrive on time. How much damage the island receives will also depend on actions taken by everyone. Will Elah even have an island to return back to…?
This will lead to Nogard heading towards an island called Adoportsag that is home to giant snails and snailfolk along with some slugs and other large insects. Here the island of Elah will be detached from Nogard but will be able to stay floating freely without moving too much as the currents are calm.
What is notable about these creatures and the reason for traversing to this strange island is their slime. A strong waterproof adhesive, it can be developed to temporarily, well, glue and seal the disturbed cracks to keep the land together. Yes, the snail slime can be that strong with enough refinement and magic. However, it will take a large amount and they can't use it for every crack, so it will only be used for the critical areas. Other ways to keep the island together will need to be devised while there.
» Lotus eaters. Fortunately, the snailfolk are quite friendly...and relaxed. Perhaps a little too relaxed. There is a special lotus fruit that grows on the island that is a delicacy. However, consuming too much of it has the side effect of making one very relaxed, lazy, and cheerful. Some will liken it to taking cannabis or drinking alcohol, so be careful!
» A bit moist. The island is a bit of tropical jungle, with constant rain throughout the day even when it is sunny. From light showers to strong storms, it's hard to predict when the rain will happen. Fortunately, there are many dense trees that can serve as shelters, especially when the leaves are huge. Some are the size of serving platters. There are also plenty of streams that lead out to the ocean, and finally…
» Active volcano. There is an active volcano on the southern side of the island. While it's not spewing lava now, the locals warn anyone who ventures to the area to be careful of the lava flows. Near the base of the volcano in one of the few safe areas is a grand, magnificent temple made of black obsidian. Inside are beautiful sculptures and paintings of what seems to be some kind of snail utopia with a "snail goddess" revered and worshipped. There is indeed a very large statue of a very large snail draped in dress-like robes that looks very elegant and…goddess-y by snail standards.
» A strange cult. However, while all on the island believe in and respect this "snail goddess" the temple worshipers are very ardent. They also consume a different kind of fruit, lava pomegranates found only in the area. Suspicious. In any case, at some point they get it in their heads that to see their beloved goddess again, they need to sacrifice outsiders to the volcano. Fortunately, the snails are slow so stopping and rescuing people is quite an easy task. Getting them out of their sticky bindings, may be the real challenge.
» A bit moist. The island is a bit of tropical jungle, with constant rain throughout the day even when it is sunny. From light showers to strong storms, it's hard to predict when the rain will happen. Fortunately, there are many dense trees that can serve as shelters, especially when the leaves are huge. Some are the size of serving platters. There are also plenty of streams that lead out to the ocean, and finally…
» Active volcano. There is an active volcano on the southern side of the island. While it's not spewing lava now, the locals warn anyone who ventures to the area to be careful of the lava flows. Near the base of the volcano in one of the few safe areas is a grand, magnificent temple made of black obsidian. Inside are beautiful sculptures and paintings of what seems to be some kind of snail utopia with a "snail goddess" revered and worshipped. There is indeed a very large statue of a very large snail draped in dress-like robes that looks very elegant and…goddess-y by snail standards.
» A strange cult. However, while all on the island believe in and respect this "snail goddess" the temple worshipers are very ardent. They also consume a different kind of fruit, lava pomegranates found only in the area. Suspicious. In any case, at some point they get it in their heads that to see their beloved goddess again, they need to sacrifice outsiders to the volcano. Fortunately, the snails are slow so stopping and rescuing people is quite an easy task. Getting them out of their sticky bindings, may be the real challenge.
If dealing with strange snails and collecting sticky slime isn't already challenging enough, while stationed at the island, there will be a return of Krahs, the shark leviathan and the ruthless sharkfolk to attack the island of Elah. Perhaps sensing this as a prime opportunity to try and take over, they will also try to rip apart the giant landmass. One might think that would be impossible, but with the island already slowly breaking apart and the shark leviathan having quite the powerful jaw, well. Perhaps it's not so hard to imagine after all.
All hands on deck to fend off the sharkfolk! Perhaps the whalefolk will join in and help—if they arrive on time. How much damage the island receives will also depend on actions taken by everyone. Will Elah even have an island to return back to…?
LAST WORDS
And that's it! If you have any questions, feel free to comment here. All quest-related questions should be posted to the Manta Board post.